ISO 2493-1 is an ISO test method for measuring the bending resistance of paper and board using a constant rate of deflection approach (two-point loading principle). It is commonly used to compare stiffness-related performance across grades, directions (MD/CD), and production lots.
This standard is typically applied across a measured bending-resistance range of 20 mN to 10 000 mN. If you need help matching your material range to the right instrument capacity or fixture setup, contact our team to discuss your application.
ISO 2493-1:2010 — Paper and board — Determination of bending resistance — Part 1: Constant rate of deflection
ISO 2493-1:2010 defines a standardized laboratory procedure for determining the bending resistance (stiffness against bending) of paper and board by deflecting a test piece through a defined angle at a defined bending length using a constant-rate-of-deflection principle.
The method is intended for paper and board within a defined force range and is not intended for corrugated board as a finished product (though it can be applied to components used to make corrugated board).
Quick Definition
In practical terms: ISO 2493-1 measures how much bending resistance a strip of paper or board exhibits when it is bent under controlled, repeatable conditions using a constant rate of deflection, producing a bending-resistance value that can be used for QC and product comparisons.
What This Standard Covers
ISO 2493-1 specifies procedures (based on a two-point loading principle) for determining bending resistance of paper and board.
Key method features commonly referenced when selecting equipment:
- Primary setup: Bending angle of 15° at a bending length of 50 mm.
- Low-stiffness option: A shorter bending length of 10 mm can be used when results are too low to measure at 50 mm.
- Deformation-sensitive option: A half bending angle of 7.5° can be used for boards that may be permanently deformed at 15°.
Applicability range: Intended for bending resistance measurements within 20 mN to 10 000 mN.
Limitations: Not applicable to corrugated board as a complete product; may be applicable to its component papers/liners/mediums as appropriate.
Why This Standard Matters in Testing
Bending resistance is a key property for handling, converting, runnability, and end-use performance where stiffness influences behavior such as feeding through equipment, maintaining shape, and resisting sagging or buckling.
In production and receiving inspection, ISO 2493-1 is often used to support lot acceptance, process adjustments, supplier comparisons, and trend monitoring for stiffness-related attributes.
Common Materials, Product Types, or Applications Covered
This standard is used for paper and board grades where bending resistance is a relevant performance indicator.
Common examples include:
- Paperboard and packaging board used for cartons and sleeves
- Printing and writing papers where stiffness affects handling
- Other paper and board grades where directionality (machine direction vs cross direction) is evaluated
It is not intended for corrugated board as a finished structure, but it can be applied to the papers used as components in corrugated board construction.
Common Test or Verification Workflow
Most labs apply ISO 2493-1 as a controlled comparison method, focusing on consistent sampling and specimen handling so results are meaningful across lots and time.
Common workflows: Routine QC trending, supplier qualification, incoming inspection, product development benchmarking, and MD/CD comparisons.
Practical caution: Because this method allows different bending lengths (50 mm or 10 mm) and (when needed) a reduced bending angle (7.5°), reported results should be interpreted in the context of the exact setup used.
Equipment Commonly Used for This Standard
ISO 2493-1 points to a constant-rate-of-deflection bending resistance tester configured for the two-point loading principle and capable of operating within the force range relevant to the material being tested.
Common equipment elements:
- Constant-rate-of-deflection bending resistance tester (two-point loading) with suitable force capacity for the expected range
- Fixtures/support geometry suitable for the specified bending length (commonly 50 mm, with an option for 10 mm for low bending resistance)
- Specimen cutting tools/templates suitable for producing consistent strips
- Basic lab accessories for repeatable specimen handling and documentation
If you are selecting a tester capacity, low-range versus standard-range configuration, or fixtures for 50 mm versus 10 mm bending length, you can request a detailed quote for a configuration aligned with your target materials and reporting needs.
How to Read This Designation or Revision
ISO 2493-1 identifies Part 1 of the ISO 2493 series for determining bending resistance of paper and board, and it specifically covers the constant rate of deflection approach.
ISO 2493-1:2010 indicates the year of publication (2010) for this edition. When a purchase specification or customer document cites ISO 2493-1, confirm whether it calls out a specific year/edition, since setup and reporting expectations can depend on the cited edition.
This edition was confirmed in 2016 (remains current as published).
Related Standards, Methods, or Frameworks when useful
ISO 2493 is published in multiple parts that use different instrumentation principles for bending resistance. In addition to Part 1 (constant rate of deflection), many labs also encounter Part 2 for Taber-type testers when instrument type is specified by a customer or internal method.
Related reference: ISO 2493-2 (Taber-type tester) is commonly cited alongside ISO 2493-1 when organizations differentiate results by instrument method.
Get help choosing a bending resistance test setup
If you need to align an instrument configuration to ISO 2493-1 (including force range, bending length options, or how to handle deformation-sensitive boards), talk with our team and we’ll help you narrow down a practical setup for your lab workflow.